Glassboys develop youth policy

STOURBRIDGE FC have announced ambitious plans to develop the club's youth policy.

The Glassboys are set to expand the grass roots side of the club through their Development Centre.

They already run junior sides ranging from Under-11s up to Under-18s together with a highly successful youth side.

That existing set-up will now be increased further as Stourbridge look to add lower age groups to their ranks going right down to Under-7 sides.

A host of UEFA qualified A and B coaches, many of whom have been former professional players, have already been recruited.

Club director and youth development officer, Andy Bullingham, said: "We really mean business. We want to be able to take youngsters from our lowest levels right through to the first team.

"Each team, at every level, will have qualified coaches available to them - all of which will be preaching the same philosophy.

"Every player will have his own development plan. We want to educate all our youngsters both technically and tactically.

"We will be following the FA Four Corner Model which combines technical, physical, psychological and social attributes".

The Glassboys believe a strong junior set-up will form the bedrock of the club for years to come.

They insist a strong junior set up is vital as they look to take the Glassboys into Conference level football.

As a result, John Kearney has been appointed as head of the Development Centre leading to Grass root academy links with Birmingham City.

Bullingham added: "We are deadly serious about developing this side of the club and everyone involved with Stourbridge FC has bought into this.

"So now we're calling on parents of talented children to get involved."

Youngsters in the area are now being given the chance to be taken on by the club. Anyone who wants a trial must complete an online application at stourbridgefc.com by May 13.

A presentation night will take place for successful applicants at the club's War Memorial Ground headquarters in Amblecote on May 17, when youngsters and parents alike can meet with manager Gary Hackett and his staff.